With the announcement of Tony and Ziva’s upcoming spinoff, many fans are wondering if Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs could make a surprise return. Harmon, who stepped away from NCIS in season 19, remains one of the most iconic figures in the franchise, and his connection to both Tony and Ziva makes his inclusion in the new series a real possibility. Bringing Gibbs back, even in a guest role, would be a powerful way to link the new spinoff to the legacy of the original show.
The chemistry between Gibbs, Tony, and Ziva was one of the defining elements of NCIS. Gibbs acted as a mentor to both of them, guiding Tony’s growth from a playful agent into a strong leader and helping Ziva find her place within the team. Seeing them reunited would give longtime fans the closure and nostalgia they’ve been craving, especially since Gibbs’ departure felt abrupt and left many storylines open-ended.
Mark Harmon’s return would also add weight to the spinoff’s storyline. If Tony and Ziva are in danger or facing a mission that requires his guidance, Gibbs stepping in would feel natural and exciting. Even a brief appearance could provide a symbolic passing of the torch, solidifying Tony and Ziva as the central figures of their own series while still honoring Gibbs’ legacy.
Whether or not it happens, the possibility of Gibbs reuniting with Tony and Ziva has already sparked massive buzz among fans. His presence could elevate the spinoff from just another continuation to a true extension of the NCIS story, blending old favorites with fresh adventures.